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APPROVED
RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETIN FEBRUARY 4, 2010
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON FEBRUARY 4, 2010 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT 908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Ann Covode, Martha Gaines
Absent: Jean Esch
Also Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski,
Attorney David Saunders
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the meeting
to order at 7:50 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion #1: Ann Covode made a motion
to approve minutes from the January 14, 2010 board meeting. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #3: Jack Darin made a motion to approve payment of February bills in the amount
of $10,884.39. Martha Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #4: Ann Covode made a motion to approve February
petty cash expenditures in the amount of $218.95. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Director of Parks and Recreation
Brian Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
Brian
will conduct second interviews February 8 and 9 with four applicants for the program director job. He hopes to make a final
decision by the end of next week. The program director will work 20 hours a week during the academic year and 30 hours a week
during the summer. Once the new program director is hired, plans will move ahead for the spring/summer Farmers Market in Ridgeville Park.
Because
of the ongoing cold weather, the maintenance crew has been successful in making an ice rink at Kamen East Park
and keeping the ice in good shape. Many skaters and hockey players have been using the ice and several residents have expressed
their gratitude for the ice-making efforts. On behalf of the board, Pat McCourt added thanks for the workers' good job.
Winter
classes are going well with sufficient participation to keep eight classes going. There is strong participation in yoga and
creative movement classes. Registration for most summer camp programs is slow but steady. The day camp for 5-7-year-olds has
been brisk. Fourteen children have been registered for this camp and the maximum enrollment is 28.
Attorney David Saunders
distributed copies of the annual calendar of dates for the board to make wage, budget, appropriation, tax and other financial
decisions for the park district.
David was asked about the procedure to select a new board member if one moves out
of the district.
There was discussion about how to establish a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization that would
be able to accept financial donations.
Motion #5: At 8:27 p.m. Ann Covode
made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes submitted by Rita McCourt
APPROVED
RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETING
JANUARY 14, 2010
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON JANUARY 14, 2010 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT
908 SEWARD STREET,
EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Ann Covode, Martha Gaines
Absent: Jean Esch
Also Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski,
Treasurer Dean Scane
Citizens: Ald. Coleen Burrus, David
Mensch
President Pat McCourt called the meeting to order at 7:48 p.m.
Citizen Comment:
David Mensch, former Ridgeville commissioner, thanked the board for holding the line on spending.
He also informed the board that he and his wife had a special dinner in New Orleans,
using the American Express gift certificate David received from the board as a going-away gift when he left the board last
spring.
Approval
of Minutes:
Motion #1: Jack Darin made a motion to approve minutes
from the December 10, 2009 board meeting. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Dean Scane discovered
an error in dates included in approved minutes from the September 10, 1009 board minutes.
Motion #2: Jack Darin made a motion to correct Motion #2 in the September 10, 2009 minutes to indicate
that the board was voting to approve the Appropriation Ordinance for the Fiscal Year beginning July 1, 2009 and ending June
30, 2010. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #3: Martha Gaines made a motion to approve payment of January bills in the amount of $17,909.51. Jack Darin seconded
the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Martha Gaines commented that the link to the on-line brochure for spring/summer
park district programs works well and she encouraged staff to update the website.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:Motion #4: Ann Covode made a motion to approve January
petty cash expenditures in the amount of $1,280.99. Martha Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Treasurer Dean Scane reviewed the park district's updated appropriation ledger and the general
ledger/balance sheet. Copies are available in the park district office. Dean also said the statement of receipts and disbursements
from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009 has been printed in Pioneer Press.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly
report. Highlights:
Because of continuing cold weather,
the maintenance workers have been able to make ice at Kamen
East Park. There is a supervisor
in the field house during specified hours, which are posted. The ice rink has been attracting 20-25 skaters each day.
Because
of all the snow and ice, the park district ordered more salt and there have been additional man hours devoted to snow removal
from sidewalks and driveways. Brian split the maintenance crew shifts so that one person is working 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and the
other works 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. until the end of winter season.
Winter classes began January 11. Brian will report on
attendance at the February board meeting.
Approximately 25 people have applied for the program director's job. Brian
plans to interview the top 5-6 candidates. Board members are invited to participate in the interview process.
Martha
communicated constituents' comments and questions regarding the maintenance of the wood floor for yoga classes and various
day camp policies.
Ald. Coleen Burris addressed the board about city budget issues and possible federally-funded projects.
She said she is forming four committees for the 9th Ward-beautification, environment/community gardens, public safety and
communications. She told the board a ward website, electronic newsletter and message board are operating. Her intern, Chris
Lee, is involved with the communications projects. Ald Burrus encouraged input from Ridgeville staff and board members.
Ann Covode suggested that Chris Lee work with Ridgeville staff to integrate park district information in various ward communications.
It was the consensus of the board members to have the monthly board meeting on February 4, 2010 rather than on February
11, 2010.
Motion
#5: At 8:56 p.m. Ann Covode made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Jack
Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes submitted by Rita McCourt
APPROVED
RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
MONTHLY BOARD MEETING
DECEMBER 10, 2009
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK
DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON DECEMBER 10, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED
AT
908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON,
ILLINOIS.
Present:
President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Ann Covode, Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Also Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski, Attorney John Hayes,
Auditor Cate Moulton
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the meeting to order at 7:49 p.m.
Annual Audit:
Auditor Cate Moulton of Knutte & Associates reviewed the audit of Ridgeville finances
for fiscal year 2008-2009.
Motion #1: Jack Darin made a motion that the Ridgeville Board
of Commissioners accept the audit prepared by Knutte & Associates. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
A
copy of the audit is available at the Ridgeville Park District office.
Cate said Knutte will file the debt disclosure information
required by Cook County
ordinance.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion #2: Jack Darin made a motion
to approve minutes from the November 12, 2009 board meeting. Martha Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #3: Ann Covode made a motion to approve payment of December bills in the amount
of $26,504.86. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #4: Jean Esch made a motion to approve December petty cash expenditures in the
amount of $1,094.29. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Office Manager/Board Secretary Anna Christina Nelson's
report was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
The park
district's spring/summer 2010 brochure is now available online, a month earlier than usual. Visit the web site by going to
www.ridgeville.org and clicking on the “Brochure” link. Board members are asked to provide feedback.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian
Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
The spring/summer
brochure has been delivered door-to-door. Copies are available in the office and lobby of the community house. Alison did
a great job on the brochure, her last one as program director before she started a job at Northwestern University. Brian plans to post
the program director's job in late December and interview applicants in January. Several people have expressed interest in
applying for the job.
Brian has met with Marcos Cruz and Ruben Sierra to review their job performance.
The
maintenance crew is preparing for winter weather. The plow is in place on the F250 truck and the snow blowers are ready to
use. Brian may have to order more salt, depending on how much is used in January. There are several small projects to complete
in the Community House as time allows.
Brian will attend the December 17 meeting of the City of Evanston Joint Review Boards to discuss six Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts in the
city. Three of the districts will have an impact on Ridgeville.
Leaders of the Ridgeville Band have asked whether the
board plans to continue its financial support of the band, $400 per year. It was the consensus of the board to include $400
for the band in the January 2010 bills.
Board members discussed holiday stipends for staff members, noting that salaries
have not been raised this year.
Motion #5: Ann Covode made a motion that staff members Brian
Rosinski, Anna Christina Nelson, Marcos Cruz and Ruben Sierra be paid a holiday stipend of $750 each and that Alison Witt-Janssen
be paid a holiday stipend of $500. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Brian reviewed his investment
worksheet for board members, including his recommendations for investing park district funds in certificates of deposit.
Motion #6: Jack Darin made a motion authorizing Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski to invest
$56,000 in certificates of deposit due to mature in March 2010 and to invest $50,000 in certificates of deposit to mature
in August 2010. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion #7:
At 8:50 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to go into executive session.
Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes
submitted by Rita McCourt
_______________________________________________________________________
The executive
session was called to order at 8:55 p.m. The purpose of the executive session was to discuss the annual review of Director
of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski.
Motion #8: Jack Darin made a motion
to come out of executive session at 9:15 p.m. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion #9: Jack Darin made a motion that Brian Rosinski's annual salary remain $70,500. Ann Covode
seconded the motion. Motion passed unamimously.
Motion #10: At 9:20 p.m. Ann
Covode made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Notes submitted
by Pat McCourt
APPROVED Minutes for
RIDGEVILLE
PARK DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 2009
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD
OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON NOVEMBER 12, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT
908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Ann Covode
Absent: Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Also Present: Director of Parks
and Recreation Brian Rosinski, Attorney David Saunders
Citizens: none
President
Pat McCourt called the meeting to order at 7:50 p.m.
Levy Ordinance:
Motion #1: Jack
Darin made a motion to approve an ordinance levying taxes totaling $529,000.00 for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2009
and ending June 30, 2010.
Ann Covode seconded the motion.
Roll call vote:
Commissioner Covode aye
Commissioner Darin
aye
Commissioner McCourt aye
Motion passed unanimously.
A copy of the ordinance is available
at the park district office.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion #2: Ann Covode made a motion
to approve minutes from the October 15, 2009 board meeting. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #3: Jack Darin made a motion to approve payment of November bills in the amount
of $16,368.98. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #4: Ann Covode made a motion to approve November petty cash expenditures in the
amount of $1,362.57. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Illinois Association of Park Districts Meeting:
Brian told the board that Anna Christina Nelson plans to represent Ridgeville
at the January 2010 Illinois Association of Park Districts meeting in Chicago. Brian also may attend some sessions.
Cook County
Debt Disclosure Ordinance:
Board members received a copy of
a letter from the Cook County
Treasurer's Office regarding the recently-passed debt disclosure ordinance. Staff will check with Ridgeville's auditor about
submitting the required information.
Alison Witt-Janssen's report was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
Alison is resigning from her position as Ridgeville program director to accept a full-time
job at Northwestern University.
Her letter mentioned how much she has enjoyed working with the park distict staff, campers and patrons as well as the musicians
who perform at Ridgeville functions and the farmers who participate in the weekly Farmers Market during the spring and summer.
Brian expects to hire a new program director by March 1.
The October 29 Halloween event, which included a sing-along
and pumpkin giveaway, was successful. It was advertised in local newspapers and in fliers that were distributed to schools.
The spring/summer program brochure will be delivered door-to-door in early December. Alison thanked everyone who submitted
quotes for the brochure.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
Brian estimates more than 75 children and their families attended the Ridgeville Halloween
event at the community house and Ridgeville Park.
Singer Joel Frankel performed for more than an hour and was a big hit.
The maintenance crew will continue continue
grinding leaves in each park for the next couple of weeks. Several trees have been pruned by Sunrise Tree Service. Gravel has been placed in the parking area next to the fieldhouse in
Kamen East Park. A fence will be built there and some trees and shrubs will be planted. The old
F-250 truck has been sold for $75 for scrap metal.
Motion #5: At 8:30 p.m. Jack
Darin made a motion that the meeting be adjourned.
Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes
submitted by Rita McCourt
APPROVED MINUTES – Oct. 2009
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE
PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON OCTOBER 15, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED
AT 908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President
Pat McCourt, Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Absent: Vice President Jack Darin,
Ann Covode
Also
Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski, Attorney
David Saunders, Treasurer Dean Scane
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the meeting
to order at 7:54 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion #1: Martha Gaines made a motion
to approve minutes from the September 10, 2009 board meeting. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #2: Martha Gaines made a motion to approve payment of September bills in the amount
of $19,895.75. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #3: Martha Gaines made a motion to approve September petty cash expenditures in
the amount of $1,128.72. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Brian reported on certificates of
deposit that are maturing this month.
Motion #4: Martha Gaines made a motion
that $60, 262.86, the total amount from certificates of deposits due to mature October 22, be transferred to the corporate
account. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.
Alison Witt-Janssen's report was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
Ridgeville's Fall Frenzy event on Saturday, September 12 was well attended.
A couple of suggestions from people who were there--that a food vendor be included and that park district advertising encourage
people to bring a lunch. Main attractions were the henna painter and Steve Capillo's band.
The park district's Halloween
Party will be October 29.
Ridgeville will receive $1,330 from the Illinois
Arts Council for the 2010 summer concert series.
Alison edited a 5-minute video of highlights from Ridgeville's “Youth
in the Parks Neighborhood Video Project.” Footage was shot by young people who live in the park district. The video
will be shown at the Evanston Community Foundation annual
meeting October 16.
The “Bike the Ridge” event on October 4 was very successful. It is estimated that
1,000 bike riders participated and during peak hours there were between 200 and 300 people in Ridgeville Park. Volunteers were served breakfast
in the community house. Lyons Farm, a participant in Ridgeville's Farmers Market, donated apples and pears. The organization
that registered bikes reported registering 150 bikes during the event, a 33% increase over last year.
In her final
report about the 2009 Farmers Markets, Alison noted efforts to increase the number of vendors who will participate next year.
She also suggests hiring a market manager to focus on public relations and advertising. Thanks to Ann Covode for first suggesting
that Ridgeville host a Farmers Market.
Alison is working on Ridgeville's Spring/Summer brochure. There will be a 5%
increase in the amount charged for each class and camp. Board members are invited to submit contributions for the brochure.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian
Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
Treasurer
Dean Scane, Anna Christina Nelson and Brian have met with Knutte & Associates staff to begin the park district's annual
audit process. There will be a report for the board to review in November or December.
The City of Evanston, Ald. Ann Rainey and many organizations have thanked Ridgeville Park District for
its help during the “Bike the Ridge” event. Participating volunteers represented the City of Evanston,
St. Francis
Hospital, Oakton School,
St. Nicholas Parish, McGaw YMCA and Turin Bicycle Shop.
The
Oakton School Parent-Teacher Organization
held a fund-raiser September 26 at Ridgeville Park.
New lights have been installed in Reba Park. Wood chips have been put in
place at Brummel Park and Elks Park. Cracked glass has been replaced
at the Kamen Park East Field-house. Brian distributed to board members the updated list of maintenance projects completed
or planned at parks and buildings.
Brian distributed new state laws related to the Illinois
Municipal Retirement Fund. He contacted the Illinois Association of Park Districts and was told the IAPD does not have a sample
policy covering personnel matters including vacation time, personal time, family leave, etc. He and Anna Christina Nelson
are gathering policies from other park districts.
Motion #5: Martha Gaines made
the following motion: Resolved that the amount of taxes which this Board estimates the District will be required to levy for
the fiscal year 2009-2010 is $529,000.00. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion approved unanimously.
Attorney David
Saunders said he will have the levy ordinance to the board members at the November 12 meeting.
Board members discussed
city parking restrictions on Reba Place in front of
Reba Park. Martha Gaines said she will talk to people living near the park to get a consensus about what hours the park should
be open and what parking rules can be implemented to make sure the area is safe without eliminating parking spaces for residents.
Motion #6: At 8:30 p.m. Martha Gaines made a motion that the meeting be adjourned.
Jean Esch seconded
the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes submitted by Rita McCourt
A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD BY THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS IN THE COMMUNITY HOUSE AT 908 SEWARD
STREET, EVANSTON, ON AUGUST 13, 2009 FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONSIDERING THE DISTRICT'S BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE FOR
THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2009 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2010 AND RECEIVING TESTIMONY, COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS AS TO SUCH
BUDGET AND APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE.
Present: President Pat
McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Also Present: Director
of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski
Absent: Ann Covode
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the public hearing to order at 7:34 p.m.,
Discussion
focused on the need to repair the two lights in Reba Park, which are more than 20 years old. Director of Parks and Recreation
Brian Rosinski has begun investigating the cost of replacing damaged parts of the lights while keeping the bases, which are
still in good shape.
At 7:46 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to adjourn the public hearing. Jean Esch seconded the motion.
Motion passed unanimously.
RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETING
AUGUST 13, 2009
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WAS HELD ON AUGUST 13, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT
908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Absent: Ann Covode
Also Present: Director of Parks and
Recreation Brian Rosinski
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the meeting
to order at 7:47 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion #1: Jack Darin made a motion
to approve minutes from the July 9, 2009 board meeting. Martha Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #2: Jack Darin made a motion to approve payment of August bills in the amount of
$38,397.65. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #3: Jack Darin made a motion to approve August petty cash expenditures in the amount of $2,534.05.
Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly
report. Highlights:
Summer camp programs ended August 7 and
went smoothly because of experienced staff members. Brian and Alison will evaluate each counselor with his/her supervisor
and decide who will be offered jobs for next summer. Ridgeville's Youth in the Parks Programs ends August 28. One Youth in
the Parks staff member will remain on a part-time basis into September.
More than 200 people attended the 70th anniversary
celebration July 26. The event was written up in the August 6 edition of the Evanston
Review. Thanks to Anna Christina and Alison for their hard work publicizing the celebration.
Ridgeville, City of Evanston and Brummel Park
Neighbors cooperated in “National Night Out” activities in Brummel
Park on August 4. More than 100 people participated.
The new
“Gator” park vehicle was delivered August 5.
Maintenance crew members are completing suggested improvements
in the parks and buildings. Brian distributed a list of the suggestions, noting which ones have been completed and the proposed
schedule to finish the rest of the items on the list.
Motion #4: Jack Darin made
a motion to authorize Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski to seek estimates for repair of lights in Reba Park,
with estimates to be reviewed and accepted by board members via e-mail. Martha Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Alison
Witt-Jansen is on vacation.
Anna Christina Nelson has suggested forming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit might help the park district
in fundraising.
Jack Darin said he will not be able to attend the September 10 board meeting. Brian will check
with other board members to make sure there is a quorum for that date.
Motion #5: At
8:25 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to go into executive session.
Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes
submitted by Rita McCourt
President Pat McCourt called the executive session into order at 8:26 p.m. The purpose
of the executive session was to discuss the annual review of Anna Christina Nelson.
The board came out of executive
session at 8:42 p.m.
Motion #6: Martha Gaines made a motion that Anna Christina
Nelson be given a raise of
3%, from $43,820.00 to $45,150.00 per year. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion #7: At 8:45 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to adjourn the meeting.
Martha Gaines seconded
the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Notes submitted by Pat McCourt
APPROVED MINUTES of JULY
9, 2009 MONTHLY BOARD MEETING
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WA HELD ON JULY 9, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE
PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT 908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President
Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Absent: Ann
Covode
Also
Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski,
Attorney David Saunders
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the meeting
to order at 8:00 p.m.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion #1: Jack Darin made a motion
to approve minutes from the June 11, 2009 board meeting. Martha Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion #2: Jack Darin made a motion to approve minutes from the June 6 board meeting (when board members
visited each park). Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Board members thanked Martha for compiling
the list of notes taken about each park and of suggested improvements for the parks.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #3: Jack Darin made a motion to approve payment of July bills in the amount of $18,334.10. Jean
Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #4: Martha Gaines made a motion to approve July petty cash expenditures in the amount of $1,921.92. Jack Darin
seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion #5: Jack Darin made
a motion authorizing spending up to $10,000 to purchase a John Deere 4x4 fuel-injected “Gator” park vehicle. Martha
Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Tentative Budget for Fiscal Year 2009-2010:
Brian Rosinski reviewed the proposed budget he prepared with Treasurer Dean Scane.
Motion #6: Jack Darin made a motion to approve the tentative budget for fiscal year
July 1, 2009-June
30, 2010 with corporate fund expenditures totaling $280,000.00 and Recreation Fund expenditures totaling $275,000.00 . Martha
Gaines seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
A copy of the tentative budget is available in the Ridgeville
Park District office. A public hearing about the tentative budget will be August 13.
The monthly report from Program Director Alison Witt-Janssen
was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
Dogs on a Roll
has withdrawn as a participating vendor in Ridgeville's weekly Farmers Market. Another vendor, Whimsical Acres, also may withdraw
because of a death in the family. The cheese vendor and Soap Sublime have decided to extend their participation until the
end of the season and will be charged accordingly.
Ridgeville's Youth in the Parks Neighborhood Video Project will
begin with an orientation session. Classes will begin Monday, July 19. Work has begun on the park district's fall brochure.
Plans are in place for Ridgeville's 70th anniversary celebration on Sunday, July 26, starting with a mush ball game at 3 p.m.
Carlos Berber is catering the celebration and there will be live music. The Evanston
History Center is assisting.
Co-sponsors are First Bank & Trust, Lemoi Hardware and St. Francis Hospital. Alison has been gathering information
about website development. It was the consensus of the board that Alison continue investigating ways to develop a new website
for the park district.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
Summer programs have be problem-free thanks to the diligent work of Anna Christina Nelson,
Alison Witt Janssen and summer staff members. The first session of summer programs ends July 10. Maintenance workers have
successfully completed many repairs in the parks. Baseball diamonds have been upgraded with 45 yards of baseball dirt,
and the sod has been cut and edged. The crew will begin painting benches and fountains on Monday. Picnic tables and trash
receptacles have arrived and will be placed in the parks.
Brian will be out of town July 30 and 31. Alison and Anna
Christina will share Brian's responsibilities those two days.
Brian distributed to each board member a copy of a letter
to state legislators asking the legislators to refrain from using money from public employees' insurance funds to balance
the state budget. Each board member has the option of signing a the letter.
Motion #7: At 9:10 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed
unanimously.
Minutes submitted by Rita McCourt
APPROVED Minutes of JUNE 11,
2009 RPD MONTHLY BOARD Mtg.
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON JUNE 12, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE
PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT
908 SEWARD STREET,
EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President Pat McCourt, Vice President
Jack Darin, Ann Covode, Jean Esch, Martha Gaines
Also Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski, Treasurer Dean Scane, Evanston Police Sgt.
Brian Henry, Evanston Police Officer B. Maldonado
Citizens: none
President Pat McCourt called the meeting to order at 7:45 p.m.
Sgt. Henry and Officer Maldonado
updated board members about the Evanston Police Department's plans to have officers patrol near Ridgeville parks on a regular
basis so that all neighborhood residents are comfortable using the parks for recreation. They said the Brummel Park Neighbors group has been effective
in helping police keep that particular park safe. They added that if residents call police to report trouble or suspicious
activity it is particularly helpful to officers if the residents can provide specific descriptions of suspects and car license
plate numbers.
Ann Covode suggested that volleyball nets be placed in parks with enough space. There was discussion
about adding picnic tables and benches in the parks but it was noted that some residents then complain that these additions
lead to loitering and undesirable activities. The police representatives were questioned about the effectiveness of the “no
parking” signs in front of Reba Park. It was noted that signs that are faded and thus un-readable should be replaced.
Approval
of Minutes:
Board
members discussed minutes from the May 14 meeting and clarified which parks (Ridgeville and Kamen West) have drinking fountains
that will be removed because they are inoperable.
Motion #1: Ann Covode made a motion to approve minutes from the May 14, 2009 board meeting. Jack Darin seconded the motion.
Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #2: Jack Darin made a motion to approve payment of June
bills in the amount of $12,551.14. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval
of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #3: Ann Covode made a motion to approve June petty cash expenditures in the amount of $2,345.38. Jack Darin seconded
the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
The monthly report from Program Director Alison
Witt-Janssen was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
The weather has been chilly for two Wednesday Farmers Markets but the number of shoppers is
increasing. The Farmers Market will be advertised in the Evanston Review in mid-July in a section
called “Incomparable Evanston” as well as in issues of Shop Evanston
and the Evanston RoundTable. Alison is advertising the market
on a blog and using other electronic avenues. The City of Evanston
is making shopping bags advertising farmers' markets in the city and Ridgeville expects to get some of the bags to give away.
The
park district has been awarded a $1,940 grant from the Evanston
Community Foundation for a one-year Youth in the Parks Neighborhood Video Project. Applications are being taken from young
people interested in the program.
Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented
his monthly report. Highlights:
Camp programs begin June 15. Registration has gone well and many of the camp sessions already are filled
to capacity. On May 30 there was a mandatory orientation session for summer staff members. Two new camp directors and three
new counselors have been hired. All other summer staff members are returnees.
June 6 there was a summer kickoff carnival
in Brummel Park
for neighbors. There were carnival games including a “moon walk” as well as hot dogs and snacks. Approximately
55 children families attended plus various family members. Brian distributed to board members a note from Michelle Hays of
the Brummel Park
Neighbors thanking the park district for contributions to the carnival.
The “Gator” vehicle is not working
and it would not make economic sense to try to fix it. Brian is researching the cost of a new one. The maintenance staff will
be moving old vehicles and pieces of machinery from the garage at the east end of Kamen
East Park.
Brian distributed
to board members the tentative budget for fiscal year 2009-2010. Dean Scane summarized the budget-approval process.
Report
on the Parks:
Pat
McCourt distributed notes taken when board members toured the parks June 6. Ann Covode will e-mail her notes to Martha Gaines,
who will combine the notes in a comprehensive report and list of suggested improvements that can be prioritized by board members
and staff.
Prevailing Wage Ordinance:
Motion #4: Jack Darin made a motion to approve an ordinance of the
Ridgeville Park District, Cook County, Illinois
ascertaining the prevailing rate of wages for laborers, workmen and mechanics employed by public works of said park district.
Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously. (A copy of the ordinance is on file in the Ridgeville Park District
office.)
Motion
#5: At 9:28
p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes
submitted by Rita McCourt
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON MAY 14, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE
LOCATED AT 908 SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present:
President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Ann Covode, Jean Esch, newly-elected Commissioner Martha Gaines
Also
Present: Director of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski, Corporate Secretary Anna Christina Nelson, David
Saunders
Citizens: Andrea Gaines, George Gaines Jr., Taylor
Gaines, Elizabeth Hartley,
David Mensch, Tim Stroh
President Pat McCourt
called the meeting to order at 7:50 p.m.
Corporate Secretary Anna Christina Nelson administered
the oath of office to re-elected Commissioners Patrick McCourt and Jean Esch and to new Commissioner
Martha Gaines.
Citizen Comment:
Elizabeth Hartley said she would like to be added
to the list of volunteers to publicize the Ridgeville Farmers Market, which will begin in early June. Former Commissioner
David Mensch was presented with a gift to thank him for his service to the park district. He requested and received a copy
of the proposed budget for the next fiscal year.
Budget Review:
Brian reviewed
major line items in the tentative budget for fiscal year 2009-10. He noted one of the greatest increases is in the cost of
unemployment compensation insurance. Staff members have been meeting to discuss ways to trim
expenses. There will be some savings because two of the outdoor concerts normally held in the summer will not be scheduled
this year. Brian also is consolidating the annual parties for t-ball players and for counselors into the park district's 70th
anniversary party in July. It was the consensus of the board to remove two water fountains (one in Ridgeville
Park and one in Kamen West Park)
rather than pay $10,000 per fountain, which is the estimated cost of a valve now required by the City
of Evanston. David Saunders advised the board to pay
the music licensing fee of $300 requested by ASCAP. Ann Covode suggested possibly raising camp fees for summer 2010. Jean
Esch suggested a community-wide fund-raising appeal. Martha Gaines suggested tying fund-raising into the park district's 70th
anniversary celebration planned for July and Ann Covode suggested the possibility of scheduling a raffle to raise money. Jack
Darin asked Brian to investigate possible reimbursement for insulating park district buildings, including the garage and field
house. Brian is trying to get sponsors for the 70th anniversary event and continues to seek funding for scholarships so more
youngsters can attend summer camp and participate in Ridgeville programs throughout the year.
Saturday, June 6, was
set as the date for board members to tour the parks and buildings. They will meet at 8 a.m. at the field house in Kamen East Park.
Approval
of Minutes:
Motion #1: Jack Darin made a motion to approve minutes from the April 9, 2009 board meeting. Jean Esch
seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Martha Gaines noted the mention in the minutes about Unity Day and
suggested the Ridgeville staff and board members consider a day of community service within the park district.
Approval
of Bills:
Motion #2: Ann Covode made a motion to approve payment of May bills in the amount of $34,691.49. Jean
Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Petty
Cash Expenditures:
Motion #3: Ann Covode made a motion to approve May petty cash expenditures in the amount
of $1,369.99. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
The monthly report
from Program Director Alison Witt-Janssen was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
Staff
members have been hired to work at summer camps and programs. Alison is happy to report that many have previous experience
working at Ridgeville, which will add to the professional tone of summer programs.
Katie Hilton, former Ridgeville
camper and now a college student, has been hired as Farmers Market manager. Participating farmers/vendors
are: Lyons Fruit Farm, Wisconsin Artisan Cheese, Triple A
Farms (produce), Songbird Coffee Roasters (coffee and baked goods), Whimsical Acres (flowers, herbs, planters, soaps, alpaca
yarn, crafts) and Soap Sublime. Two vertical banners have been hung (on Washington Street and Hinman Avenue) and sign/s will
be placed at the corner of Ridge Avenue and South Boulevard.
Alison has prepared a tentative schedule for Ridgeville's
70th anniversary celebration planned for 3-7 p.m. on Sunday, July 26 with Sunday,
August 2 as a backup in case of bad weather on July 26.
Director
of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
The Farmers Market will begin
on Wednesday, June 3. Posters will be placed next week in the window boxes in the parks.
On April 23 staff members
were trained in CPR and proper use of a defibrillator in case of an emergency. On May 30 the same training will take place
for summer staff members who are not already certified.
Brian asked the board to increase the amount in the petty cash
account during the summer months because of increased expenses when summer programs are underway.
Motion
#4: Jack Darin made a motion that the Ridgeville Park District petty
cash fund be increased to $3,000 for the months of June, July and August. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed
unanimously.
Motion #5: At 9:07 p.m. Jack Darin
made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes submitted
by Rita McCourt
APPROVED RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 9, 2009
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF
THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON APRIL 9, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE
PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE LOCATED AT
908
SEWARD STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present: President Pat McCourt, Vice
President Jack Darin, Jean Esch, David Mensch
Absent: Ann Covode
Also Present: Director
of Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski
Citizens: Martha Gaines
President Pat McCourt called the meeting to order at 6:05
p.m.
Results from voting in the April 7 election indicate that Martha Gaines won election to the park district
board, defeating incumbent Commissioner David Mensch. David thanked board members for the spirit of cooperation he experienced
while on the board. David added that he appreciated having the opportunity to serve and offered his help if ever needed by
the park district. He urged the board to continue to be fiscally vigilant. Board members thanked David for his service to
the park district and for the opinions and insights he shared at meetings.
Board members congratulated Martha Gaines
on her election. Plans call for her to be sworn in at the May 14 meeting.
Approval of Minutes:
Motion
#1: Jack Darin made a motion
to approve minutes from the March 12, 2009 board meeting. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval
of Bills:
Motion #2: Jack
Darin made a motion to approve payment of April bills in the amount of $9,158.71. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed
unanimously.
Approval of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #3: Jack Darin made a motion to approve April petty cash expenditures
in the amount of $723.94. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
The monthly
report from Program Director Alison Witt-Janssen was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
The weather cooperated and 30-40 families participated
in Ridgeville's egg hunt and “Meet the Bunny Party” events on Saturday, April 4. Spring
break camp was held this week, led by Vivienne Witter, Kaley Rosinski and Zach Shiffren. The Studio 908 class session
has ended and will be followed by a mini session beginning the week of April 12.
Three vendors have committed to participate
in Ridgeville's 2009 Farmers Markets: Lyons Fruit Farm, Wisconsin Artisan Cheese and Triple A Farms (produce). Alison hopes for
more participants. Ridgeville did not receive an Illinois Department of Agriculture grant this
year, money that was spent on advertising last year, so other methods will be used to spread the word about the weekly farmers
market.
Alison expects to find out in May if Ridgeville will receive an Evanston
Community Foundation grant for a youth in the parks video project. In late August the Illinois Arts Council will make funding recommendations
for the 2010 concert series.
A reminder--Sunday, July 26 is the date chosen to celebrate
Ridgeville's 70th anniversary with Sunday, August 2 as a backup in case of bad weather on July 26. Ann Covode has suggested having a baseball or softball game as part of the anniversary
celebration. Alison would like to hear other ideas about how to get residents involved.
Director of
Parks and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
An average of 12 children per day participated in spring break camp, which
was held April 6 through 9 including election day, April 7. All went well.
Knutte &
Associates is not willing to cut the price of preparing Ridgeville's audit for the next three fiscal years. Brian and board
members discussed the proposal as well as Knutte's professionalism and familiarity with Ridgeville finances.
Motion #4: Jack Darin made a motion that Knutte & Associates be retained
to prepare Ridgeville Park District's annual audits and financial reports for fiscal year 2008-2009 for $5,000; for 2009-2010
for $5,250; and for 2010-2011 for $5,500. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Two Community
House doors have to be replaced. Brian is investigating the cost.
Cook County Clerk David Orr's office will conduct the official canvass of results from the April 7 election.
Official canvass results will be available April 28.
Brian told board members about Unity Day, a day of community service
planned by four local congregations--Beth Emet, Reba Place,
Saint Nicholas and Second Baptist, Reba Place--for
Sunday, April 26. Information will be sent to each board member.
Motion #5: Jack Darin made a motion that a commendation be prepared, thanking David Mensch for his service as
a member of the board and also that David be presented with a $100 American Express gift certificate. Jean Esch seconded the
motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Motion #6: At
6:40 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Jean Esch seconded the motion. Motion
passed unanimously.
Minutes submitted by Rita McCourt
APPROVED
MINUTES OF RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT MONTHLY BOARD MEETING FOR FEBRUARY 12, 2009
THE MONTHLY MEETING OF THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS WAS HELD ON FEBRUARY 12, 2009 IN THE RIDGEVILLE PARK DISTRICT COMMUNITY HOUSE
LOCATED AT
908 SEWARD
STREET, EVANSTON, ILLINOIS.
Present:
President Pat McCourt, Vice President Jack Darin, Ann Covode, Jean Esch,
David Mensch
Also Present: Director of Parks
and Recreation Brian Rosinski, Program Director
Alison Witt-Janssen
Citizens: Martha Gaines,
Tim Stroll
President Pat McCourt called the meeting to order at 7:48 p.m.
Citizen
Comments: Martha Gaines was introduced. She is a candidate
seeking election April 7
to a four-year term on the Ridgeville board. Ms. Gaines said she decided to become a candidate because she wants to get involved
in community service and local politics.
Farmers
Market:
Alison outlined plans for the spring/summer
2009 Farmers Markets in Ridgeville Park and said there are two goals-to sign
up more vendors and to attract more shoppers. Most vendors and shoppers preferred having the market on the grassy area close
to the Ridge Avenue- South Boulevard intersection rather than on the former
basketball courts just to the east in Ridgeville Park. A few shoppers said they preferred the court location because they
did not like hearing the traffic on Ridge Avenue. Brian reported that the 2008 Farmers Markets cost the park district between
$2000 and $3000, most in wages for staff members who worked at the markets. It was noted that construction along Ridge cut
the number of people (and potential shoppers) who were aware of the market. It was the consensus of the board to try the Farmers Market series for one more year, to shorten the hours so that the market
will be from 4-7 p.m.
(rather than 4-8 p.m.)
and to reduce the fee for vendors from $425 to $325 (for 18 weeks). It was also suggested that staff do as much free advertising
as possible, such as on the Evanston cable television station.
Approval
of Minutes:
Motion #1: Ann Covode made a motion to
approve minutes from the January 8, 2009 board meeting. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval of Bills:
Motion #2: Jack Darin made a motion to approve payment of March bills in the amount of $14,278.13. David Mensch
seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
Approval
of Petty Cash Expenditures:
Motion #3: David Mensch made a motion to approve March petty cash expenditures in the amount of
$661.84. Ann Covode seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
The monthly report from Program Director Alison Witt-Janssen was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
Ridgeville has
an advertisement in the 2009 summer guide published by the City of Evanston Arts & Recreation Department.
Alison is applying for a $3,765 grant from the Evanston Community Foundation to fund a two-year “Youth in the Parks Neighborhood Video Project.”
If the application is approved, Ridgeville will work with the Evanston Community Media Center to train ten young people in video production
and editing skills. The videos will focus on people living in Ridgeville neighborhoods.
People working at Evanston Photographic Studios have found photos from the 1960's featuring then-Alderman/Ridgeville
Commissioner Kamen with children and a ventriloquist. These photos will be on display as part of the park district's 70th
anniversary celebration in July.
Director of Parks
and Recreation Brian Rosinski presented his monthly report. Highlights:
Tax projections printed in the January 29 issue of the Evanston Review indicate Ridgeville's tax levy will generate $529 in additional funds for the 2009-10 budget compared to 2008-2009. Expenditures
for employees' retirement fund and health insurance will increase. Brian has been meeting with staff members to brainstorm
about ways to cut costs.
Registration for Ridgeville's summer camp programs
has been surprisingly strong for this early in the year. Spots are almost filled for the camp program for 3 & 4-year-olds.
Camp for 5-6 & 7-year olds is about half full. Brian and Alison hope to complete hiring summer employees by April 1. Ann Covode suggested that Ridgeville
staff members investigate all possibilities for grants and other funding that would help low-income families pay for their
children to attend Ridgeville camps.
Brian reviewed an updated an investment schedule that was prepared by Treasurer
Dean Scane.
Motion #4: David Mensch made a motion that the park district invest $60,000 in a certificate of
deposit at First Bank & Trust of Evanston with the certificate of deposit due to mature in June 2009. Jack Darin seconded the motion. Motion
passed unanimously.
Brian and Dean are reviewing a proposal from Knutte & Associates
to complete the annual audit of Ridgeville finances for the next three years.
A report from Office Manager Anna Christina Nelson was presented by Brian Rosinski. Highlights:
Information was published in the January 15 issue of the Evanston Review
announcing details about filing information for the April 7 election for Ridgeville board members. The filing period ended
January 26. Four candidates filed paperwork for three spots on the board: incumbents Pat McCourt and Jean Esch are each unopposed
in seeking election to six-year terms and incumbent David Mensch is opposed by Martha Gaines is seeking election to a four-year
term.
Staff members are very pleased with the newly-installed phone system and the new printer in the office.
Anna
Christina asked that the board establish a policy regarding use of wireless modems in the Ridgeville office in order to prevent
identity theft. Anna Christina has taken steps to replace the wireless modem on her computer. Alison's computer has a wireless
modem but it is not turned on. It was the consensus of the board that no wireless work be done in Ridgeville offices.
Anna
Christina will prepare a report summarizing key legislative issues that were discussed at the recent Illinois Association of Park Districts conference as well as expected increased expenses for the employees'
retirement fund.
Motion #5: At 8:49 p.m. Jack Darin made a motion to adjourn the meeting. David Mensch seconded the motion. Motion
passed unanimously.
Minutes submitted by Rita McCourt
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